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From Opinions Desk

Jeff Devoll’s latest book, ‘Everything You Know About Jesus Is Wrong,’ attempts to go beneath the layers of centuries of political and cultural baggage to reveal the historical figure of the first century.

A new nonfiction book is challenging readers to reconsider how centuries of culture, politics and religious tradition have shaped modern assumptions about Jesus.

In “Everything You Know About Jesus Is Wrong,” author Jeff Devoll examines how interpretations of Jesus have evolved far beyond their original historical and cultural context. Drawing on first‑century history, language and customs, the book invites readers to rediscover Jesus as his earliest followers would have understood him.

Rather than rejecting faith, the book emphasizes clarity and renewal. It argues that many contemporary frustrations with religion stem from a growing gap between the Jesus presented in modern discourse and the figure depicted in the Gospels.

“Over time, nearly every movement—religious and secular alike—has tried to claim Jesus for its own purposes,” said Devoll. “This book is about setting those layers aside and returning to the original context where his words and actions first took shape.”

Blending historical analysis with accessible reflection, “Everything You Know About Jesus Is Wrong” speaks to a broad audience, including lifelong believers experiencing spiritual distance, skeptics questioning inherited explanations; and readers interested in the historical foundations of Christianity.

The book examines how artists, theologians, political movements and modern media have influenced popular images of Jesus. Further, how recovering the original setting of his message can offer fresh clarity for contemporary life.

Jeff Devoll is an international speaker, strategist, and nonprofit leader. As co-founder of The Reach Group, a network of nonprofits, he has spoken to over one million people across 40 states and 40 countries, inspiring change and hope